For parents and carers of children with special educational needs and disabilities, learning about and getting the services your child needs as they grow up can feel like an up-hill struggle. SENDiass (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information, Advice and Support Services) provides a vital life-line of knowledge for carers, through its highly trained team of staff and volunteers. Many volunteers have their own experiences accessing services, so are uniquely able to understand, share valuable information and a listening ear for families needing support.

Since March 2023, Emma has been supporting carers of young children in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) as a Parent Champion.

As a mum of a young child with autism, at first you don’t know where to look for help or who to speak to. Once you start to find your way, there is so much information, it can be overwhelming. Initially there was a lot of support through other parents, school staff, charities and social media groups with experience of special educational needs and autism. But even with this, I didn’t know much at all about the services available to my son and I in BCP or where to look.

As part of government legislation, all Councils must provide details of the “local offer” for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. SENDiass provides this in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole and whilst I’d heard it mentioned, I didn’t know what it was.

After seeing a Parent Carers Together coffee morning advertised on social media, I thought it would be nice to meet some new people, potentially in a similar position as me. Although I wasn’t sure what to expect, the brilliant Alexia, SENDiass Parent Champion Coordinator was there, explained all about what they did and asked if I would be interested in becoming one.

I like being open and sharing my experience and know how much it can benefit others having someone who can provide information. Having someone to listen and understand what the family is going through can be such a relief. For a while I’d wanted to give something back, so when this opportunity presented itself, it seemed perfect.

Before starting I had a brilliant training programme to prepare me for the role. From getting a diagnosis or developing an EHCP (Education Health and Care Plan) to accessing specific services such as speech and language therapy, we are constantly learning, developing and sharing our skills which helps the people I speak to as well as how I support my own child.

As a Parent Champion, I provide confidential listening and signposting to services on offer for children and young people with additional needs and their families. It’s an invaluable resource for parents and carers, at a time when they really need support but don’t know where to turn. This can be with any Special Educational Needs related concerns, at any point they feel their child needs support. No assessment or diagnosis is needed.

Volunteers are matched to a school where you meet with parents on a monthly basis. Parents and carers can book an appointment through their school office. My focus is on early years and my experience with my child has helped to raise awareness of the benefit of autism training, particularly in nursery and first schools. Getting these early experiences right can make a vital difference to a child with SEN as they go through school.

From June 2023 I’ve also supported parents at Stay and Play sessions run through BCP’s portage service for children of preschool age. I’m there to chat to parents looking for information and offer a safe space to talk about any issues they are facing in their child’s SEND journey. Thankfully we seem to be moving towards developing more understanding of what children, parents and carers need to support them.

The great thing about Parent Champion Volunteering is that by sharing your own experience you can really help others and in turn it has really helped me. I’ve always struggled with social anxiety in certain situations, but I’m so passionate about this role that it has helped to push me out of my comfort zone. I have lots of empathy and I think I’m a good listener. Supporting others has improved my social skills and being able to pass on my experience has given me confidence.

Volunteering is a simple way you can make a huge difference to others and yourself. Look for something you have an interest in. Push yourself. It’s really good to try something that helps you grow and if it doesn’t work out, don’t worry, there are other opportunities out there.

For more information visit Parent Champion Volunteers, email alexia.tough@bcpcouncil.gov.uk or call 01202 128181.

For information on volunteering in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole email: liz.soffe@can100.org or visit www.can100.org/volunteer.